Yoga Classes

Our Yoga instructors

Fran is a deeply caring and skilled Somatic Yoga and Medical QiGong teacher, with more than 24 years experience in the field of Yoga and Somatic Therapy. Fran conducts classes, retreats and individual sessions …Click here

What is yoga?

Hatha Yoga practice is the science and art of bringing one’s body and mind into a state of harmony. Whether it’s a gentle or stronger practice it can help to reduce stress and tension, improve energy, increase concentration, and centre and calm the mind. Yoga is suitable for anyone by enhancing awareness of the body and mind, and contributing to overall physical and mental wellbeing.

How can yoga help?

Yoga can help with a range of physical conditions including back and neck pain, arthritis, osteoporosis, and scoliosis, to list a few, as well as benefits to emotional and mental states for those who experience anxiety, depression, and addictions.

What happens in a class?

In a typical hatha yoga class at Bardon Counselling and Natural Therapies Centre stretches, postures, and movements are practised to improve flexibility, build strength, and align posture. With attention to the breath, practitioners are encouraged to listen to their body, getting to know areas to improve circulation and energy flow. Generally, each class will explore gentle twists, side bends, backbends, forward bends and a range of movement sequences to suit individual needs and abilities. While exploring these physical aspects other breathing practices, meditation, and relaxation practices are also regular components of a balanced hatha yoga class. A good yoga class caters for individual differences and needs and levels of experience. Our experienced teachers Fran and Peter both do this.

They each have over twenty years experience of teaching Yoga, and in their classes they may also draw on a mix of other relevant forms of physical exercise/therapy such as Feldenkrais, qigong, Oki yoga, and Pilates practices where appropriate.

Fran specialises in teaching gentle and nurturing classes which are suitable for those who are tentative about a ‘regular’ class.

Peter’s also emphasises awareness and self care, and incorporates some stronger practices as well.

The intention for each class is that it is enjoyable and wholesome in its effects, while empowering the practitioner to take charge of their own wellbeing and leave the class feeling uplifted and peaceful.